News Summary

The Hamshire-Fannett community is mourning the loss of Jayleigh Moralez, a beloved senior softball player who passed away from asthma complications. Friends and teammates remember her dedication and leadership on and off the field. Plans for a vigil to honor her legacy are in place as the community comes together in this difficult time.

Hamshire, Texas – A Community In Mourning

This past weekend, the tight-knit community of Hamshire-Fannett is grappling with an immense loss. Jayleigh Moralez, a beloved senior softball star at Hamshire-Fannett High School, tragically passed away due to complications from asthma. This heartbreaking news has rippled through the halls of the school and among friends and family as they return to classes after the weekend of mourning.

Jayleigh’s Legacy on the Field

Jayleigh was a standout catcher, known for her fierce dedication to the game and her remarkable leadership qualities. Friends and teammates have passionately recalled her incredible work ethic, noting that she always put in the extra effort during practice. Those who were close to her describe having not just a teammate but a best friend who felt like family. Over the past decade, her teammates have formed deep connections, underscoring the bond they shared on and off the field.

Shared Stories of Friendship

The memories of playing ball together will remain forever etched in the hearts of her teammates. They express that although they did not share a bloodline, the time spent together on the dirt of the softball field created an unbreakable bond. As they lean on one another during this challenging time, they are focusing on how to honor Jayleigh’s contributions, highlighting not only the talent she brought to the team but also the positivity she spread among her peers.

An Aspirational Athlete

With aspirations of continuing her softball journey in college, Jayleigh was a shining star for Hamshire-Fannett High School. Her former varsity softball coach expressed disbelief at the sudden and tragic loss, recalling Jayleigh’s bright future ahead. The community believed in her dreams, cheering her on every step of the way.

Plans to Honor Jayleigh

In response to this staggering loss, Jayleigh’s teammates and friends are coming together to honor her legacy. They are determined to carry on her spirit by keeping her memory alive both on and off the field. One poignant way they wish to do this is by organizing a lantern vigil, which is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday at the Hamshire-Fannett softball field. This event will aim to unite the community in love and remembrance, celebrating a young life that touched so many.

Remembering Jayleigh

Jayleigh was born on September 10, 2007, in Port Arthur, Texas, and was loved dearly by her family, including her parents, Jessica and Daniel Moralez, and her brother Jordan. The community is also remembering her late grandfather, Julian Agapito Garza, Jr., who preceded her in death. A funeral service is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Broussard’s, where family and friends are welcome to gather the evening before. These services will offer a space for sharing memories and supporting one another during this difficult time.

A Community’s Response

As tributes pour in, friends, classmates, and community members have highlighted Jayleigh’s sweet personality and the lasting memories they shared with her. Despite the great sadness that permeates the air, there is also a shared commitment to remember and celebrate the life of this extraordinary young woman, whose spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of everyone she knew.

In a time marked by grief, the community is finding strength in unity. It’s a difficult moment for Hamshire-Fannett, but it’s also a reminder of how the bonds of friendship and community can sometimes bring comfort amidst sorrow. Jayleigh Moralez may be gone, but her enduring impact on those around her will never fade.

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